In this online 3D modeling course, you'll learn how to create digital assets using Maya and Substance Painter. You'll be mentored by an industry expert with years of experience working on blockbuster films and best-selling video games.
Why study 3D modeling with us:
This short course will introduce you to hard surface and organic modeling techniques. You'll create stylized 3D assets from scratch and understand the difference between film and video game modeling.
Industry Certificate
3 months
20 hrs weekly
Beginner
November 4th, 2024
December 2nd, 2024
January 6th, 2025
Weekly live online classes
Video lectures
Mentor feedback
Access to vibrant community
Learn 3D Modeling Essentials starting with the essentials: navigating Maya’s interface, understanding professional workflows, commonly used tools, and building 3D assets from scratch. Identify differences between film and video game models by learning high poly 3D modeling techniques, then converting it for video games, and adding textures in Substance Painter.
*This short course is equivalent to the first term of the 3D Modeling Foundations course. If you continue your learning journey, you'll be eligible to join the Foundations course from Term 2 onwards.
This short course is equivalent to term one of the Foundations course. On completion of the Essentials course, if you decide to progress further with your studies, you'll enroll straight into term two of the corresponding Foundations course which means you'll already be one-third of the way through your studies! Continue your learning journey towards an exciting career in the industry by enrolling into the Foundations Career Track.
These expert 3D modelers, who've worked in film and games, have the skills, knowledge, and industry insights to support you during your studies.
Bryan's award winning experience includes lead positions at ILM and Rhythm & Hues working films like The Golden Compass, Rango, Pacific Rim, and Transformers 2 and 3.
Curriculum Manager of 3D Modeling
Known for Pacific Rim
First a texture artist at Nickelodeon, then a 3D character artist at Gameloft, Anton is ahead of the curve when using emerging software for real-time graphics and film production.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Penguins of Madagascar
David is a Lead Hard Surface Modeler and Career Coach at DNEG and has worked on projects including Snowpiercer, Enola Holmes, and Moonfall.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Enola Holmes
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for The Batman
Dept. Head of 3D Modeling
Known for Redfall
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Batman: Arkham Knight
Learn more about the prerequisites for this course and the 3D modeling careers you could explore in the future. For general questions about studying at CG Spectrum, visit the main FAQ page or contact us.
Age Minimum
The general minimum age to be able to enroll in our industry certificate courses is 16. We require parent or guardian consent during the enrollment process for applicants under 18.
Students under 16 will require a further assessment before they can officially enrol. This may include an interview with a course advisor and the creation of a study plan to ensure they have considered how they will manage a college-level workload.
English Proficiency
We expect our students to have a good understanding of written and spoken English. There’s no specific ’level'; however, you must be able to understand video tutorials in English (no subtitles) and speak with your mentor in English during your live Q&A session.
Computer Literacy
To be successful in this program, you will need basic computer skills and a computer that meets the minimum specifications (see next question).
Software:
Students can sign up for an educational license for Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter. Instructions for how to obtain an educational license for the required software will be provided upon enrollment.
Hardware:
You will need a dedicated graphics card, and a computer that meets the minimum requirements for Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter. A minimum of 32GB RAM is ideal.
Please note: as the software we use is regularly updated, please check the specs against the latest available version at the time of enroling.
This short course will get you started on your creative journey, but in a competitive industry, we advise continuing your studies with the full career track.
The 3D modeling career track includes the 3D Modeling Foundations and 3D Modeler Specialization. It is designed to better prepare you for a job in the industry and help increase your employment opportunities.
The career track ensures you build strong foundational skills before moving on to more complex techniques and workflows. You will also dedicate time to career development and preparing a polished portfolio while you gain invaluable industry insights.
Some of the junior 3D modeling jobs you could pursue after completing the full study pathway include:
Discover more about these 3D modeling jobs, tips, and salary expectations on our careers page:
I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience at CG Spectrum.
I recently finished Introduction to 3D Modeling course. I went in with about a year’s worth of other online 3D modeling courses, but nothing compared to CG Spectrum. I learnt so much from this course, and I had an amazing mentor (Anton Tenitsky) who pushed me to perfection. It was the best decision I made in order to pursue my end goal. I took the next step and enrolled in the advanced course!
CG Spectrum seemed too good to be true. Looking back, it was the best decision.
Every mentor and staff member has been so hands-on and directly involved in my learning. Co-Directors of top box office movies and supervisors of major Netflix TV shows are giving me feedback on my projects. Students also have access to a strong community, and an awesome career class to prepare you for your dream job.
You're not just another number.
I always dreamed of breaking into the entertainment industry and since joining CG Spectrum I realised it's not an unachievable dream. CG Spectrum has a way of mentoring students that I hadn't experienced before. My mentor was always pushing me in order to become industry-ready. Mentors are always available for feedback and take a proactive approach to teaching. Studying online makes for a more dedicated and uninterrupted learning experience.
I've just accepted an internship role at Pixar!
As my final semester of the Advanced 3d Modeling course is coming to an end, I've just accepted an internship role at Pixar! I've learned so much over the past year and am thrilled to have the skills now to make a career change for my dream job. I'm excited to begin this new phase of my journey—thanks so much CG Spectrum!
One of the best learning experiences of my life.
In less than a year I was able to achieve results I could never imagine!
The course material covers a lot in a shorter time frame.
I was really happy with the constructive feedback given to me by my mentor for a 1-on-1 Introduction to 3D Modeling program. The industry tips and workflows recommended helped me get a more robust understanding of workflow fundamentals. I'd recommend CG Spectrum for the calibre of training.
Study options for all skill levels, from short introductory courses to specialized industry tracks and accredited degrees and diplomas.